You’ve booked your trip. You’re very excited. You’ve created a countdown. You’ve done everything you can do and plan until the date is almost here…
And then you have to pack.
I absolutely HATE packing. It’s a bit better now that the kids are older and I’m not as responsible for basics. But the lists get longer, and I can never decide what I may want to wear. If this is you, or you just need a little guidance, or this might make your life easier – you’re welcome!
Before we get into specifics, let’s start with the most basic items – clothes and shoes.
The weather in Paris is pretty similar to the U.K. – it has a life of its own, but there is the usual seasonal variation. As a result, pack for the season you are going, but with a bit of wriggle room in case there’s a random heatwave (like the first time I went), or Elsa sets off another perpetual winter. Be aware that it gets VERY cold in the winter. I would say they have more snow than many parts of the U.K., and the sizeable fountain outside Disneyland Park has been known to freeze on many occasions. It can also be very difficult to dry damp/wet items, so you may choose to bring more than one pair of shoes, maybe even wellingtons in the colder months. Also, bring ponchos or umbrellas, hats and sunglasses. You can buy them in the parks, but they are expensive.
Next, something to bear in mind if you’re driving. It’s not just about extra documentation, but also items for your car.
Essential Documents:
- Full, valid driving licence
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months AFTER your return date)
- V5C Certificate
- Insurance Certificate
- Proof of Insurance (A Motor Insurance Green Card if you have or can get one)
Required Safety Equipment:
- Reflective Jackets: One for each person, kept in the car, not the boot
- Warning Triangle
- Headlamp Beam Deflectors
- UK Sticker
- Snow Chains (but only if you are also planning to drive up some mountains!)
- If you are going to drive into Paris, you’ll need a ‘Crit’Air’ (clean air) sticker
You risk fines if you are caught without these items.
You’ll need a good park bag as you will have essentials to take every day. Ensure you choose something comfortable, light and spacious, and ideally at least a little waterproof!
Essential items to pack for your park bag:
- Tickets or passes (digital or printed, or you may have both)
- Portable phone charger (as you will take lots of photos and videos and be using apps a lot)
- Methods of payment: cards and cash
- Drinks – there are water fountains, so you can take a refillable bottle
- Snacks
- You are also required to keep your passports with you
- Waterproofs and/or umbrellas
- Hats and sunglasses
- The priority card you will have been given if you have a party member with a U.K. Disability Card
You also may want to add:
- Sunscreen, hand cream and lip balm
- Hand sanitiser and wipes
- Pain relief
- Plasters or blister pads
- Ears or shoulder pets
- Autograph book(s) and pen(s)
- Ziplock bags to keep items dry on water rides
- Bags for carrying purchases (there are no free bags in the shops. You can buy bags, but they are expensive)
- Noise-cancelling headphones or similar (maybe even for people who don’t normally use them)
In terms of general packing, items to remember include:
- Toiletries
- Prescription medications (in their boxes)
- First Aid Kit
- Chargers for all devices
- Most hotels have hairdryers (check though!), but other hair styling items like straighteners
- Entertainment items such as books and devices
- Comfort items for small children
- All items for travellers with additional needs (Including U.K. Disability Card(s) if anyone has them)
- Washing powder in case you have a laundry emergency
- Antihistamines
- Check if you need to take towels for your room (you will definitely need pool towels)
A further note: If you have children in your party with different surnames from yours (such as children in blended families, or if you are a grandparent), then you will need to get a form completed by the child’s legal guardian. You can Google to find one that suits your needs. The chances are you won’t need it, but if you are questioned, then it is best to be able to show you have the legal guardian’s permission. If you are one legal guardian and the other is refusing to give permission, you may be subject to kidnapping charges, so seek appropriate advice.
Happy packing! (although I maintain there’s no such thing)
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